Riad Joya, Marrakesh

Kimberley Dyer discovers a beautiful and tranquil Riad among the busy souks of Old Town Marrakesh

Overview
For an authentic taste of Marrakesh, staying in the Old Town is a must. The Riad Joya, a luxurious retreat tucked away between the many winding streets of the Medina, offers a quintessentially Moroccan experience complete with traditional meals and humble hospitality while upholding the ideals of the most glamorous globetrotting guest.

The room
The hotel impresses with seven unique suites designed by the Italian-born Umberto Maria Branchini. Taking inspiration from traditional Moroccan design and merging it with the aesthetics of the Western world, the eclectic mix of quite stunning. Gentle lights flicker from behind perforated lamps, highlighting the juxtaposition of soft pastel upholstery with Moorish architecture.

Each suite is themed around an important value in Moroccan culture. Mine, Ambergris was inspired by the fragrant substance produced by sperm whales, which is commonly used in traditional tea making and considered a strong aphrodisiac. Suite Ambergris personifies this concept with feminine fabrics and rich grey interior shades. It is also worth noting that several of the suites adjoin, creating the perfect place for extended families, and the entire Riad can be rented for an intimate reunion among friends.

The hotel
Each morning you will awaken to a customary breakfast of Moroccan pancakes, freshly squeezed orange juice, succulent local fruit and Maghrebi mint tea, among many other tasty treats. At night, try the traditional tagine prepared with love by the hotel staff using the freshest of ingredients from the nearby markets. We suggest indulging in the poached pear for pudding.

Take a little “me” time at the hotels private hammam, or steam room, a staple in the Moroccan lifestyle, where you will be cleansed with black soap and treated to a signature body massage enhanced with fragrant Argan oil.

Finally, don’t forget to check out the rooftop lounge. Relax, unwind and enjoy the African sun beaming down on you (SPF 40 highly advisable) and perhaps a sweet or two at this divine patio retreat.

Culture
The hotel staff is keen to suggest great restaurants with spectacular views and clever tips on navigating the city. A few minutes’ walk away is the famous Medina bustling with snake charmers, street buskers and locals selling North African spices. Also worth a trip is the flourishing Jardin Majorelle, a gift from Yves Saint Laurent to the city he so much adored. Another absolute must is a visit to the souks. You will get lost for hours exploring these intertwining streets and bartering with the locals over their fine products.

Book it
One week at Riad Joya (+212 (0) 5 24 39 16 24; www.riadjoya.com) costs from £930 B&B and includes an additional night’s stay free, airport transfers, butler service and daily treats.

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